PIECING TOGETHER A FOREST

THE HARTFORD COURANT

Open space preservationists have scored another coup with the pending acquisition of a 119-acre parcel in Glastonbury. Thanks to cooperation, foresight and patience, another piece of forestland won't fall into developers' hands.

The Nature Conservancy will take ownership of the former Arbor Acres' poultry farm. The Glastonbury Town Council has agreed to contribute $60,000 to the cost of cleaning up the site.

This property adjoins 217 acres the conservancy recently bought in Marlborough. The Kongscut Land Trust and the Meshomasic State Forest also border the farm. The purchase means a significant habitat or foraging area for black bear, bobcats, rattlesnakes, songbirds and several other species will be protected.

Along with 62 acres in East Hampton, the land will add about 400 acres to the state forest, which runs through East Hampton, Glastonbury, Marlborough and Portland. South central Connecticut is a prime area for the Nature Conservancy's efforts because it is under considerable pressure from developers. Over 13,000 acres are protected within Meshomasic.

In deciding what to purchase, the Nature Conservancy looks for land that meets specific criteria, such as size, limited roads and minimal development in contiguous parcels. The conservancy's goal is to preserve blocks of about 15,000 acres each. It has identified six such areas in the state.

The Glastonbury parcel came on the market because the farm closed and the owner decided to sell. The company could have easily found a developer to buy the land. But it chose the conservancy and left a lasting legacy.

There are advantages to selling to the Nature Conservancy, which is a nonprofit. There's no conveyance tax. If the owner sells at less than market value, it is a tax deduction. It's a cash sale. And it's a great public relations move.

And the seller, like everyone, has a wonderful place to hike, picnic and enjoy the outdoors.